Shedeur Sanders shines with 3 TDs at Browns camp on July 26, heating up the QB competition with Kenny Pickett. Get the latest on the battle for QB1.
StatPro NFL Beat Reporter
The quarterback competition in Berea officially has some sizzle. During a high-stakes red zone session on Saturday, it was Shedeur Sanders who stole the show, firing three touchdown passes and making a strong statement in the ongoing battle for QB1. While veteran Kenny Pickett continued to take first-team reps, Sanders' performance turned heads and added a compelling new chapter to the most-watched storyline of training camp.
We dodged a bullet there.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski has preached a 'fluid' approach to the quarterback rotation, and Saturday was a prime example. While Kenny Pickett looked comfortable leading the first-team offense, Shedeur Sanders made the most of his opportunities with the second and third units, showcasing the poise and playmaking ability that made him a college superstar. His three-touchdown performance in 11-on-11 drills, particularly in the compressed space of the red zone, demonstrated a quick release and sharp decision-making. Rookie Dillon Gabriel also saw reps, while veteran Joe Flacco was held out of team drills, keeping the focus on the younger arms. Stefanski reiterated that the depth chart is written in pencil, not pen, ensuring this competition will remain fierce.
The biggest news off the field was a collective sigh of relief regarding receiver Cedric Tillman. After leaving Friday's practice with a scary-looking lower leg injury, Tillman was back on the field Saturday, participating fully. Coach Stefanski confirmed the good news, telling reporters, 'We dodged a bullet there,' and that the injury was not serious. The sight of Tillman running routes was a welcome one for a receiving corps counting on his development. Meanwhile, guard Teven Jenkins, running back Jerome Ford, and safety Tony Brown remained sidelined but are reportedly progressing well, with hopes they can return to action soon.
While the quarterbacks were lighting it up, the defense made sure nothing came easy. As the first block of training camp concluded, the defensive secondary put a stamp on the week. Pro Bowl cornerback Denzel Ward was a blanket in coverage, breaking up several passes and reminding everyone of his elite status. Alongside him, safety Ronnie Hickman Jr. continued his impressive camp, flying to the ball and making plays that showcased his range and instincts. It was a classic 'iron sharpens iron' practice, with the defense providing the perfect test for the offense's red zone surge.
With Jerome Ford still nursing an injury, the Browns' front office added some fresh legs to the running back room. The team announced the signing of Toa Taua, who recently impressed with the UFL's Michigan Panthers. Taua provides much-needed depth and a hungry new competitor in a backfield that will be critical to the team's success. It's a low-risk, high-reward move that demonstrates the team is constantly looking for ways to bolster the roster.
As the Browns close the book on the first block of training camp, the narrative is crystal clear: competition is breeding excellence. The quarterback battle is far from settled, the defense is already in mid-season form, and the front office continues to make shrewd moves. All eyes will be on the QB rotation next week and whether Shedeur Sanders can build on this momentum to truly challenge for the starting job. The pads are coming on soon, and that's when the real evaluation begins.
